Belize Tourism Futures

Lorenzo Gonzalez sits down with April Martinez, Living Heritage Officer at the Belize National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) and Director of the Heritage Education Network Belize (HENB), for a conversation about cultural tourism, community ownership, and the long-term work required to build authentic cultural experiences. Presented by BELTRAIDE, Belize’s national economic development agency.

Lorenzo Gonzalez sits down with Leif Sverre of Island Expeditions for a conversation about going beyond the resorts in Belize, exploring remote islands through kayaking and snorkeling, and what it takes to design better tour experiences. Presented by BELTRAIDE, Belize’s national economic development agency.

Host Lorenzo Gonzalez sits down with Bella Zabaneh, Miss Universe Belize, for a conversation about confidence, ambition, and mentorship in Belize. Presented by BELTRAIDE, Belize’s national economic development agency. Presented by BELTRAIDE, Belize's national economic development agency.

Host Lorenzo Gonzalez sits down with Efren Perez, President of the Belize Tourism Industry Association, for a one-year check-in on where Belize tourism stands in 2026. Presented by BELTRAIDE, Belize's national economic development agency.

Nick Scavone, Managing Director of Brilliance Belize, shares what it really takes to raise standards in Belize tourism. From signage and SOPs to staff engagement and guest perception, he explains how small details create trust, consistency, and memorable experiences. Belize Tourism Futures S2E6 | Presented by BELTRAIDE

In this episode, Lorenzo Gonzalez speaks with Mara Jernigan, a chef, culinary consultant, and educator who has worked in kitchens across Canada, Europe, and the Caribbean. In Belize, she’s led culinary operations at Copal Tree Lodge and supported teams at Mahogany Bay, Victoria House, and Blancaneaux. Mara shares why a well-run kitchen is essential to guest satisfaction—and how kitchen systems, staff morale, and food waste all connect to the bigger picture of tourism success.

Ishmael Quiroz reflects on Belize’s record-breaking tourism year, explains how BELTRAIDE’s programs support local businesses, and shares why sectors like BPOs are outpacing tourism in attracting talent. He also discusses what it would take to industrialize around tourism—and why packaging, branding, and policy reform matter more than we think. Belize Tourism Futures S2E4 | Presented by BELTRAIDE

Joanna Evans, founder of Stratbridges, breaks down what actually makes tourism marketing work. She shares why it starts with understanding your guests, building the right company culture, and staying focused on your message. This episode is full of real advice for marketers who want to stand out without chasing every trend.Belize Tourism Futures S2E3 | Presented by BELTRAIDE

Joe Awe, cultural anthropologist and founder of Nine Belize, shares what it takes to become an exceptional tour guide in Belize. From personality and energy to storytelling and mindset, he explains why guiding is both an art and a responsibility—and how better training can raise the standard across the country. Belize Tourism Futures S2E2 | Presented by BELTRAIDE

Efren Perez, the new BTIA president, shares how Belize’s tourism association is tackling infrastructure gaps, regional imbalances, and policy hurdles. From advocacy to border issues and youth leadership, we unpack what it’ll take to build a stronger, more inclusive tourism future. Belize Tourism Futures S2E1 | Presented by BELTRAIDE

Join host Lorenzo Gonzalez as he chats with Eddie Polanco, General Manager at Turneffe Island Resort, about his career journey and the ins and outs of managing a remote private island resort in Belize. 🌊🏝️

Join host Lorenzo Gonzalez and guest Patricia Johnson, a luxury travel specialist with 20 years of experience, as they discuss the evolving landscape of Belizean tourism. Learn about the role of travel advisors, unique travel experiences, and the future of tourism in Belize.